Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Louisiana
Last updated: August 2025
Quick help box (keep this handy)
- Emergencies: Call 911
- Veterans Crisis Line (24/7): Call 988, then press 1; or text 838255; or use chat at the Veterans Crisis Line website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
- VA main help line (MyVA411): 800-698-2411 (TTY: 711) — for benefits, health care, billing, and more: https://www.va.gov/contact-us
- Louisiana 211 (statewide help with food, housing, utilities): Call 211 or visit https://www.louisiana211.org
- VA Homeless Veterans Hotline (24/7): 877-424-3838 — https://www.va.gov/homeless
- Find your Parish Veterans Service Office (LDVA): https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
- Louisiana Disaster updates (GOHSEP): https://gohsep.la.gov
- Get your DD214 or service records: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
Emergency first: what to do right now
- Emotional crisis or suicidal thoughts: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or use the Veterans Crisis Line chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net. It’s confidential and open 24/7.
- Medical urgent care: If it’s life-threatening, call 911. If you’re enrolled in VA health care and unsure where to go, call MyVA411 at 800-698-2411 or your nearest VA medical center:
- Alexandria VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care
- Southeast Louisiana (New Orleans) VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care
- Overton Brooks VA (Shreveport): https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care
- Housing crisis: Call the VA Homeless Veterans line at 877-424-3838. Learn about HUD-VASH and other housing help: https://www.va.gov/homeless
- Disaster or hurricane: Check Louisiana’s official emergency site (GOHSEP) for shelters, road closures, and disaster claims: https://gohsep.la.gov. For federal help after a disaster, visit FEMA: https://www.disasterassistance.gov
- Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Report concerns to law enforcement (911 if danger) and contact your parish human services office. You can also use Louisiana 211 (https://www.louisiana211.org) to reach local Adult/Elderly Protective Services.
- Scam or fraud: Report to the DOJ National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-372-8311 and the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov
Reality check:
- During hurricanes, VA clinics may close or shift to telehealth. Check your VA facility page for alerts.
- If you’re displaced, you can fill prescriptions at many retail pharmacies through the VA Community Care pharmacy network. Call MyVA411 (800-698-2411) to confirm.
How this guide helps
This guide brings the most important federal and Louisiana-specific benefits for senior veterans (generally age 60+) into one place, with direct links to official sources. We cover health care, money and taxes, housing, food and utilities, transportation, long-term care, legal help, and more. We also include steps, reality checks, and tips that many short summaries miss.
Who is a “Louisiana veteran” for state benefits?
Louisiana follows federal definitions for “veteran” for most programs. Some state programs may require Louisiana residency and an honorable discharge, and certain benefits are limited to disabled veterans or surviving spouses. When in doubt:
- Contact your Parish Veterans Service Office (LDVA): https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
- Or call VA MyVA411: https://www.va.gov/contact-us
If you’ve lost your DD214, request it from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
At-a-glance: major benefits for senior veterans in Louisiana
Table 1. Overview and where to apply
| Benefit | Who it helps | What it does | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA health care | Eligible veterans | Primary/specialty care, prescriptions, mental health; geriatrics & home care options | VA enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/application |
| VA disability compensation | Service-connected conditions | Tax-free monthly payments; possible Special Monthly Compensation | VA disability overview: https://www.va.gov/disability |
| VA pension + Aid & Attendance/Housebound | Low-income wartime veterans age 65+ or disabled | Monthly payment; A&A/Housebound add-ons for help with daily activities | Pension: https://www.va.gov/pension; A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound |
| State Veterans Homes (LDVA) | Eligible veterans & spouses | Skilled nursing and memory care at five Louisiana homes | LDVA Veterans Homes: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes |
| Louisiana income tax on military retirement | Military retirees | Louisiana exempts military retirement pay from state income tax | LA Dept. of Revenue – Military: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel |
| Property tax relief (parish-level) for 100% disabled veterans | 100% service-connected disabled | Additional homestead/property tax relief; varies by parish | Louisiana Tax Commission info: https://www.latax.state.la.us; Check your parish assessor: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors |
| HUD-VASH & SSVF | Homeless or at-risk veterans | Housing vouchers, case management, rent help | VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless |
| SNAP and Senior Nutrition | Low-income seniors | Groceries and congregate/home-delivered meals | LA SNAP (DCFS): https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap; Senior meals: https://goea.la.gov (Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs) |
| LIHEAP (utilities) | Low-income households | Help with energy bills and weatherization | Louisiana Housing Corporation – LIHEAP: https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance |
| Hunting & fishing (LDWF) | Eligible disabled veterans | Reduced/free licenses | LDWF Veterans licensing: https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/licenses-and-permits |
| Claims help (free) | All veterans | Accredited help filing VA claims/appeals | Find LDVA Service Offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations |
Sources: VA, LDVA, Louisiana Department of Revenue, Louisiana Tax Commission, DCFS, LHC, LDWF, GOEA.
Health care in Louisiana: your options
Louisiana has three VA medical centers with clinics across the state:
- Alexandria VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care
- Southeast Louisiana (New Orleans) VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care
- Overton Brooks VA Medical Center (Shreveport): https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care
Key points
- Enrollment: Apply online, by mail, or in person. Details: https://www.va.gov/health-care
- Medicare + VA: You can have both. Keep Medicare for non-VA care and emergencies. Medicare info: https://www.medicare.gov
- Community Care: If the VA can’t provide care timely or you live far away, VA may refer you to community providers. Info: https://www.va.gov/communitycare
- Telehealth: Use VA Video Connect for home visits when travel is hard: https://telehealth.va.gov/type/home
- Toxic exposure (PACT Act): Expanded eligibility and screenings for many veterans. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits
- Dental: VA dental is limited; check eligibility: https://www.va.gov/dental
Table 2. VA health facilities in Louisiana
| Facility | Region | What they offer | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria VA Health Care System | Central LA | Primary/specialty care, mental health, rehab, some long-term care services | https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care |
| Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (New Orleans) | Southeast/Capital | Full-service medical center; women’s health, specialty clinics, telehealth; community clinics (e.g., Baton Rouge, Slidell) | https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care |
| Overton Brooks VA Medical Center (Shreveport) | Northwest/North | Full-service care; clinics in Monroe and other sites | https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care |
| Vet Centers (readjustment counseling) | Statewide coverage | Counseling for combat veterans and families; confidential | Find a Vet Center: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov |
Tip: Use the VA Facility Locator to find Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs): https://www.va.gov/find-locations
Reality check:
- Expect wait times for some specialty care. Ask about Community Care if delays are long or travel is far. Eligibility details: https://www.va.gov/communitycare
Long-term care, home supports, and caregivers
Options you can combine based on your needs:
- State Veterans Homes (LDVA)
- What they are: Skilled nursing and memory care facilities run by Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Where: Five homes (Jackson, Bossier City, Monroe area, Jennings, Reserve).
- Who qualifies: Veterans (generally with honorable service) and, in some cases, spouses/widows. Clinical and financial criteria apply.
- Learn more and apply: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
- VA Geriatrics and Extended Care
- What they do: Home-based primary care, adult day health care, respite care, nursing home care through VA Community Living Centers and contracted facilities.
- Details: https://www.va.gov/geriatrics
- Aid and Attendance/Housebound can help pay for home care or assisted living: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
- Louisiana Medicaid long-term care and home services
- Community Choices Waiver (CCW): Helps eligible seniors get care at home or in the community instead of a nursing home. Info: https://ldh.la.gov/page/212
- PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly): Team-based care to help you stay at home; available in select parishes. Info: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/long-term-services-supports/pace/index.html and Louisiana sites via LDH: https://ldh.la.gov
- Adult Day Health Care Waiver: Structured day programs, meals, nursing oversight. Info: https://ldh.la.gov
- Caregivers
- VA Caregiver Support Program: Coaching, respite, and possible stipends for certain veterans’ caregivers. Info: https://www.caregiver.va.gov
- Louisiana Aging network: Call 211 or visit the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs to find local Area Agencies on Aging: https://goea.la.gov
Table 3. Long-term care choices
| Option | Good for | What it covers | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| LDVA State Veterans Homes | Veterans needing 24/7 skilled nursing or memory care | Nursing care, rehab, activities; per diem support from VA | https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes |
| VA Geriatrics & Extended Care | Veterans needing extra support | Home-based primary care, adult day, respite, nursing home care | https://www.va.gov/geriatrics |
| Aid & Attendance / Housebound | Veterans/spouses needing help with daily activities | Adds money to VA pension to help pay for care | https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound |
| Medicaid CCW & PACE | Low-income seniors at risk of nursing home placement | In-home aides, adult day health, care coordination | CCW: https://ldh.la.gov/page/212; PACE: https://ldh.la.gov |
Reality check:
- Waitlists are common for CCW and PACE. Apply early and keep paperwork handy.
- Veterans Homes have admission criteria and may have waiting lists. Contact the home to ask about availability.
Money and taxes: make the most of what you earned
VA payments
- Disability compensation (service-connected): Tax-free monthly payments for injuries/illness caused or worsened by service. How to file and what evidence is needed: https://www.va.gov/disability
- Pension with Aid and Attendance/Housebound (wartime veterans, low income): Details and forms at https://www.va.gov/pension and https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
- Free claims help: Use accredited help from LDVA Service Officers: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations. You can also search VA’s accreditation database: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation
Louisiana taxes
- Military retirement pay: Louisiana exempts military retirement income from state income tax. See Louisiana Department of Revenue “Military Personnel” guidance: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel
- Property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans: Louisiana’s constitution allows parish-level additional homestead or special assessment benefits for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability (and certain surviving spouses). Rules and amounts vary by parish. Start with the Louisiana Tax Commission and your parish assessor: Louisiana Tax Commission: https://www.latax.state.la.us and Parish Assessors directory: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors
Other money helps
- Military Family Assistance Fund (LDVA): One-time emergency financial assistance for eligible Louisiana veterans and their families facing hardship. Program info and how to apply: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/military-family-assistance-fund
- SNAP (food stamps) for seniors: Apply through the Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services: https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap
- Senior nutrition (meals at centers or home-delivered): Find local programs via the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs: https://goea.la.gov
- LIHEAP (utility help): Apply through the Louisiana Housing Corporation: https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance
- Banking and debt: The CFPB has veteran-specific tools to avoid bad loans and scams: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/servicemembers
Table 4. Money and tax benefits at a glance
| Program | Who qualifies | What you get | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA disability compensation | Service-connected disabilities | Monthly tax-free payment | https://www.va.gov/disability |
| VA pension + A&A/Housebound | Low-income wartime vets age 65+ or disabled | Monthly payment; extra if you need daily help | https://www.va.gov/pension |
| LA military retirement tax | Military retirees | State income tax exemption | https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel |
| Property tax relief (parish-level) | 100% SC disabled veterans | Additional homestead/special assessment | https://www.latax.state.la.us; Parish assessor: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors |
| LDVA Military Family Assistance Fund | LA veterans in hardship | One-time financial help | https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/military-family-assistance-fund |
| SNAP | Low-income households | Monthly food benefit | https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap |
| LIHEAP | Low-income households | Utility bill assistance | https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance |
Reality check:
- Some programs count VA benefits as income; others don’t. Always read the “income and resources” rules on the application page and ask the agency before you apply.
Housing and homelessness help
- HUD-VASH: Combines a HUD housing voucher with VA case management. Ask your VA social worker or call the Homeless Veterans line at 877-424-3838. Program overview: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp
- SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Community nonprofits funded by VA help with rent, deposits, utilities, and rapid rehousing. Find local SSVF providers: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf
- Grant and Per Diem (GPD) transitional housing: https://www.va.gov/homeless/gpd
- VA Homeless programs overview and locator: https://www.va.gov/homeless
State and local
- Louisiana Housing Corporation: Affordable housing programs, LIHEAP utilities, and weatherization: https://www.lhc.la.gov
- 211 Louisiana: Find local shelters and landlord/tenant help: https://www.louisiana211.org
Table 5. Housing safety net
| Program | What it does | How to access |
|---|---|---|
| HUD-VASH | Voucher + case management for homeless veterans | https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp |
| SSVF | Prevents homelessness; rapid rehousing; pays some housing costs | https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf |
| GPD | Transitional housing with services | https://www.va.gov/homeless/gpd |
| LHC programs | Utility aid, weatherization, affordable housing | https://www.lhc.la.gov |
| 211 Louisiana | Local shelters, landlord issues, emergency help | https://www.louisiana211.org |
Reality check:
- Documentation (ID, DD214, income proof) speeds things up. If you don’t have papers, call 877-424-3838; VA can still start the process.
Transportation and getting to care
- DAV Transportation Network: Free rides to VA medical appointments when drivers are available. Ask your local VA facility or see DAV: https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride
- VA Beneficiary Travel: Mileage or common carrier reimbursement if you meet eligibility. Rules and how to claim: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay
- Telehealth from home: Save the trip with VA Video Connect: https://telehealth.va.gov/type/home
- Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (if enrolled in Medicaid): Request rides to medical visits. Check Louisiana Medicaid for details: https://ldh.la.gov
Tip: Ask your clinic about same-day telehealth or phone visits when weather or health makes travel unsafe.
Education, work, and small business
- Louisiana Workforce Commission – Veterans Services: Priority of service at American Job Centers, resume help, training programs: https://www.laworks.net/Workers/VJS/Veterans.asp
- SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Paid part-time training for low-income seniors; available through LWC and partner nonprofits. Learn more: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/seniors and connect locally via LWC: https://www.laworks.net
- Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative: A state program that recognizes veteran-owned businesses and helps customers find them (good for those still working or family members). Info: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/louisiana-veterans-first-business-initiative
- GI Bill for dependents and other state supports: Louisiana’s Title 29 Program supports dependents of certain disabled or deceased veterans with education benefits. Details via the Louisiana Board of Regents: https://regents.la.gov (search “Title 29”) and LDVA overview: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/title-29-dependents-educational-assistance-program
Legal help and records
- Get your DD214/service records: National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
- VA Veterans Justice Outreach (VJO): Helps veterans in courts or at risk of homelessness connect to care. Learn more and contact through your VA medical center: https://www.va.gov/homeless/vjo.asp
- Louisiana State Bar Association – Find Legal Help: https://www.lsba.org/Public/FindLegalHelp.aspx
- Louisiana Civil Justice Center (civil legal help for low-income residents): https://louisianaciviljustice.org
Tip: For VA claims and appeals, use accredited representatives only. Check accreditation: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation
Inclusive resources and groups who may need extra support
LGBTQ+ senior veterans
- VA LGBTQ+ Health Program: Supportive care, respectful documentation of identity, and coordinators at many VA facilities. Overview: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT
- Name/gender updates in VA records: https://www.va.gov/resources/how-to-change-your-legal-name-or-sex-designation-on-va-records
Disabled senior veterans
- Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): Extra funds for severe disabilities or need for aid. Overview: https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/special-monthly-compensation
- Adaptive housing grants (SAH/SHA): Help to modify or buy accessible homes. Info: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants
- Automobile allowance and adaptive equipment: https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/special-claims/auto-allowance
Tribal and Native veterans in Louisiana
- VA Office of Tribal Government Relations: Outreach and support for tribal veterans, including help coordinating VA and IHS care: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment
- Indian Health Service – find care: https://www.ihs.gov/findhealthcare
- If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe in Louisiana (e.g., Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana, Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, Jena Band of Choctaw Indians), ask your tribal office about veteran support and referral pathways. You can also contact LDVA for state benefits: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov
Rural senior veterans with limited access
- VA telehealth (home and ATLAS sites): https://telehealth.va.gov
- Community Care when drive times are long: https://www.va.gov/communitycare
- Travel reimbursement (if eligible): https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay
Female senior veterans
- Women Veterans Program Managers (WVPMS) are at each VA medical center to help you navigate women’s health, mammograms, incontinence supplies, MST-related care, and more:
- Alexandria VA Health Care System – Women’s Health: https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care/health-services/womens-health-services
- Southeast Louisiana (New Orleans) – Women’s Health: https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care/health-services/womens-health-services
- Overton Brooks (Shreveport) – Women’s Health: https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care/health-services/womens-health-services
- National women veterans resources: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov
Resources by region (major hubs and how to connect)
Southeast Louisiana (New Orleans/Northshore/River Parishes)
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (New Orleans) and clinics (e.g., Baton Rouge, Slidell): https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care
- Vet Center (New Orleans): https://www.vetcenter.va.gov
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Capital Region (Baton Rouge)
- Baton Rouge VA Outpatient Clinic (under the New Orleans system): https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care/locations
- Vet Center (Baton Rouge): https://www.vetcenter.va.gov
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Southwest Louisiana (Lake Charles/Jennings)
- Lake Charles VA Clinic (check nearest under Alexandria or Houston networks depending on location): https://www.va.gov/find-locations
- Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home (Jennings): https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Acadiana (Lafayette/New Iberia)
- Lafayette VA Clinic (system affiliation varies): https://www.va.gov/find-locations
- Vet Center outreach: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Central Louisiana (Alexandria/Leesville/Fort Johnson area)
- Alexandria VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care
- Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery information (state): https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/state-veterans-cemeteries
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Northeast Louisiana (Monroe/Ruston)
- Monroe VA Clinic (under Shreveport or Alexandria): https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care or https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care
- Northeast Louisiana Veterans Home (Monroe area): https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Northwest Louisiana (Shreveport/Bossier)
- Overton Brooks VA Medical Center (Shreveport): https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care
- Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home (Bossier City): https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Northshore/River Parishes
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery (Slidell) and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Home (Reserve) info: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/state-veterans-cemeteries and https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
- LDVA parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Note: Use the VA facility locator to confirm which clinic serves your parish: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
Step-by-step: common applications
How to apply for VA health care in Louisiana
- Gather your DD214, insurance (Medicare, TRICARE, private), and income info (if asked).
- Apply online: https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/application or call 877-222-8387.
- After approval, call your nearest VA clinic to set your first appointment:
- Alexandria: https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care
- New Orleans system: https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care
- Shreveport: https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care
- Ask about telehealth, pharmacy delivery, and local specialty clinics.
How to apply for Aid & Attendance (A&A)
- Check if you receive VA pension (not disability compensation). If not, review Pension eligibility: https://www.va.gov/pension
- Complete VA Form 21-2680 (doctor fills in details about your daily needs). Download from https://www.va.gov/find-forms
- Submit with supporting medical records. Mail to the Pension Management Center listed for your state or apply online through VA’s system.
- Get free help from LDVA: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
How to claim Louisiana property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans
- Get proof of your 100% service-connected disability rating from VA (award letter).
- Contact your Parish Assessor to ask about the additional homestead/special assessment for 100% disabled veterans. Directory: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors
- Bring ID, proof of ownership/residency, and your VA rating letter. Rules and amounts vary by parish.
Frequently Asked Questions (Louisiana-specific)
Q1: Where do I find my local LDVA Service Office?
- Use the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) location finder with a parish map: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Q2: Does Louisiana tax my military retirement pay?
- No. Louisiana exempts military retirement pay from state income tax. See the Department of Revenue’s Military Personnel page: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel
Q3: I’m a 100% disabled veteran. Do I get any property tax relief?
- Louisiana law allows parishes to grant additional homestead or special assessment benefits for 100% service-connected disabled veterans (and certain surviving spouses). Benefits and processes vary by parish. Start with your Parish Assessor: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors and the Louisiana Tax Commission: https://www.latax.state.la.us
Q4: What VA hospitals are in Louisiana?
- Three facilities serve Louisiana: Alexandria VA Health Care System (https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care), Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System in New Orleans (https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care), and Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in Shreveport (https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care)
Q5: How can I get into a Louisiana State Veterans Home?
- Review eligibility and contact the home directly via LDVA’s Veterans Homes page: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes. Expect clinical/financial screenings and possible waitlists.
Q6: Is there help if I’m behind on rent or at risk of eviction?
- Call the VA Homeless Veterans line at 877-424-3838 and ask about SSVF or HUD-VASH. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/homeless
Q7: Can I see a local (non-VA) doctor if the VA is far or the wait is long?
- Possibly, through VA Community Care, if you meet eligibility criteria. Details: https://www.va.gov/communitycare. Ask your VA provider or Patient Advocate.
Q8: Where do I apply for SNAP or utility help?
- SNAP: https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap
- LIHEAP (utilities): https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance
Q9: I don’t have my DD214. Can LDVA still help me file a claim?
- Yes. LDVA can help request your records from the National Archives and start your claim: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations. You can also request records online: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
Q10: I’m a woman veteran. Is there a contact just for women’s health?
- Each VA medical center has a Women Veterans Program Manager. Use the facility links:
Q11: Are there reduced-cost hunting/fishing licenses for disabled veterans?
- Yes. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries offers reduced or free licenses for eligible disabled veterans. Requirements and application: https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/licenses-and-permits
Q12: What if I need help caring for my spouse who is a veteran with dementia?
- Ask VA about Home-Based Primary Care, adult day health care, respite, and the Caregiver Support Program: https://www.caregiver.va.gov and https://www.va.gov/geriatrics. For low-income families, review Louisiana’s Medicaid Community Choices Waiver: https://ldh.la.gov/page/212
Q13: Is there help for senior veterans in rural parishes?
- Yes: Options include VA telehealth from home, potential Community Care referrals, and travel reimbursement if eligible. Start here: https://telehealth.va.gov and https://www.va.gov/communitycare
Q14: I think my VA decision is wrong. What can I do?
- You can file a Higher-Level Review, a Supplemental Claim, or a Board Appeal. Overview: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews. Get free help from LDVA or an accredited VSO: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations
Key links and contacts (bookmark this)
- Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) – all benefits and parish offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov
- VA benefits and health care: https://www.va.gov
- MyVA411 (all-purpose VA number): 800-698-2411 (TTY: 711) — https://www.va.gov/contact-us
- VA Facility Locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
- VA Homeless Veterans: 877-424-3838 — https://www.va.gov/homeless
- Louisiana 211: https://www.louisiana211.org
- Louisiana Department of Revenue – Military Personnel: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel
- Louisiana Tax Commission (homestead/property tax): https://www.latax.state.la.us
- Parish Assessors directory: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors
- SNAP (DCFS): https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap
- LIHEAP (LHC): https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance
- LDWF licenses: https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/licenses-and-permits
- GOHSEP (disaster): https://gohsep.la.gov
- National Archives (DD214): https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 then press 1 — https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
Disclaimer
Programs change, and local rules vary by parish. Always confirm eligibility, documents, and current benefits directly with the agency or program using the official links in this guide. This article is for general information and is not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice.
About this guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
- Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
- Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
- Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
- Last Updated: August 2025
- Sources Verified: August 2025
- Next Review: February 2026
If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.
